RECAPITULATIVE Meaning and
Definition
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Recapitulative is an adjective that describes something that summarizes or reviews previous information, events, or ideas. It pertains to the act of providing a concise overview or brief recapitulation of the main points or content. In various contexts, recapitulative can encompass different areas such as literature, music, lectures, or presentations.
In literature, a recapitulative chapter or section often appears towards the end of a book or novel, serving as a summary or conclusion that recaps the significant events, themes, or character developments. This recapitulative element offers readers a chance to reflect on and consolidate their understanding of the work as a whole.
In the field of music, recapitulative refers to a section within a musical composition where the main thematic material is restated, often after undergoing development or variation. In such instances, the recapitulative portion helps to reinforce or remind listeners of the primary melodies or motifs that have been introduced.
Furthermore, in educational settings, recapitulative activities or exercises can provide a brief review of previously covered material, helping to reinforce learning and solidify understanding. For example, a recapitulative lecture may revisit key concepts discussed in previous classes to refresh students' memories and ensure they grasp the fundamental knowledge required for upcoming topics.
Overall, recapitulative denotes the act of summarizing, reiterating, or reviewing past information, events, or ideas in order to facilitate comprehension, consolidation, or remembrance.
Etymology of RECAPITULATIVE
The word "recapitulative" is derived from the Latin term "recapitulare", which consists of two parts: "re", meaning "again", and "capitulum", meaning "chapter" or "head". The word has its roots in the practice of summing up or summarizing a larger body of information by going through the main points or chapters again. In English, the term has been adopted into various fields, such as biology, music, and rhetoric, to describe the act of summarizing or reiterating essential elements.
